AROUND 30 to 40 properties on Beales Corner in Bewdley have been affected by the flooding, according to the Environment Agency. 

Temporary defences were installed earlier this week in a bid to protect homes and businesses in the aftermath of Storm Christoph.

But the full impact of the swelling river arrived early this morning as barriers on Beales Corner were breached and water spilled into nearby properties.

The river levels in Bewdley are said to have peaked between 5.3 and 5.4m today (Saturday, January 23). 

The Environment Agency says this is lower than last year's peak following Storm Dennis, which was 5.48m.

A spokesperson for the Environment Agency said: "We recognise the impact this has on residents and have been working with the residents of Beales Corner to help them prepare for the impact of flooding. Many of them have response measures in place. 

"It's regrettable that Beales Corner has been compromised. 

"Investigations are ongoing into a permanent option to see if that’s possible.”

Wyre Forest MP Mark Garnier said on Twitter that a permanent solution to the flooding 'is coming'.

He said: "Another year, another flood in Bewdley. Very concerned that the temp barriers gave way at midnight, ahead of the flood over topping.

"A permanent solution is coming".